Police Section 60 powers authorised after disorder incidents in Werneth

The area concerned in Werneth. Image courtesy of GMP

Greater Manchester Police Section 60 powers have been authorised and will be in place until 8pm tonight (Wednesday) in Werneth.

From 8pm yesterday evening (Tuesday) until 8pm tonight, police officers have authorised the use of Section 60 powers across the area outlined in the map above.

Under Section 60 authority, officers have extra powers to stop and search people in a defined area within the specific times listed.

This has been implemented after officers were called to Stuart Street at around 6pm to an on-going, large-scale fight, which saw a 16-year-old boy taken to hospital with serious injuries.

At around 6.50pm, officers were alerted to another incident on Garthwaite Avenue, where a 17-year-old boy had been attacked, this is linked to the earlier incident on Stuart Street and he received minor injuries.

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and assault.

He remains in police custody for questioning and enquiries are ongoing.

Superintendent Phil Hutchinson, from GMP's Oldham district, said: “Our number one priority is keeping the public safe and I believe this section 60 authority is proportionate and necessary following the two incidents of violence overnight.

“We understand that members of the local community are going to concerned, but we do believe that it is a targeted attack.

“There will be extra officers in the local area both on foot and in patrol cars.

"If you have any concerns about this incident our officers will be happy to provide reassurance and listen to any of your queries.

“We want to gather as much information as possible in relation these incidents and would encourage anyone who may have seen anything or have information concerning this to contact us by calling 101 and quoting the reference number 2802 or 3019 of 28/05/2024."

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.